(BEDFORD) - The Bedford City Council passed a resolution authorizing Eric Frey of the Administrative Resources association and TASC Bus Director Melanie Hacker to seek a capitol grant under the Federal Transit Act.

The Indiana Department of Transportation will provide more than $189,000 and state funds at more than $119,000. They are also seeking grant funds of $40,000 to purchase a new TASC bus. The grant application is due by August 30.

The bus would replace a 2005 bus that currently has more than 120,000 miles on it.

"So far the bus is in pretty good shape," Hacker says. "It is not that we are having mechanical problems, but the bodies just wear out. The wheelchair lifts start to malfunction."

Hacker says ridership is steadily increasing. Last year more than 80,600 people rode the buses. Hacker added that TASC is right on target to match that same number and there's a chance they could surpass it.

Hacker says they will be looking at adding another bus and driver to the fleet.

Riding the bus is a cheap way to get around town. The cost: 75 cents for those 59 years old and younger and those 60 and up its only 50 cents. A monthly pass with unlimited rides costs only $15.

The TASC bus also provides free rides to the Limestone Ladle.

The Limestone Ladle serves free meals from 1-3 p.m. on the second and fourth Sundays of each month at the Bedford Knights of Columbus Hall, on M Street. Anyone in need of food or fellowship is invited. For a ride, call TASC by Friday before the meal at 275-1633.

"All they have to do is call and we pick them up," Hackler says. "There are different agencies, businesses and churches that provide the free transportation on those days."